Maria moved faster than she ever had in her entire long service at the estate.
She slid across the slippery marble floor and threw her arms around young Leo.
She pulled the crying boy close to her chest, shielding him completely with her body.
They were both kneeling directly underneath the massive American flag hanging above them.
Maria: Don't you dare touch him ever again in this house!
Evelyn: How dare you touch me or interfere with my personal family business!
Maria: You are hurting this child, and I will not allow it anymore!
Evelyn: You are just a paid servant who can be fired in one second!
Maria: Fire me if you must, but you will not harm this boy!
Leo buried his face deep inside Maria's clean grey maid apron, sobbing uncontrollably.
His tiny body trembled with fear as Evelyn towered over them both like a shadow.
Evelyn’s face turned bright red with explosive rage at the housekeeper's defiance.
She raised her hand high in the bright air, pointing her finger threateningly at Maria.
Evelyn: Pack your dirty trash bags and get off my expensive property right now!
Maria: I am staying right here until Mr. Richard returns home today!
Evelyn: He will take my side over a filthy domestic maid any day!
Leo: Please don't let her send you away, Maria!
Maria: I am not going anywhere, my sweet child. I am right here.
Evelyn stepped closer, her green satin gown shining under the bright ceiling lamps.
She grabbed Maria’s shoulder roughly, trying to force the older woman away from Leo.
Evelyn: Release him this instant or I will call the local police department!
Maria: Call them! Let them see how you treat your husband's only son!
Evelyn: You think anyone will believe your lies over my respected word?
Suddenly, the massive front double entrance doors flew open with an explosive boom.
The heavy wood slammed against the interior walls, echoing loudly throughout the foyer.
A tall man stepped through the threshold, his dark charcoal suit immaculate and sharp.
It was Richard, who had finished his corporate meeting early to surprise his son.
He stopped dead in his tracks as his eyes took in the scene.
He saw his wife standing over his kneeling housekeeper and his sobbing young heir.
Richard: What is happening here right now inside my home?!
Evelyn froze completely, her high hand dropping to her side in sudden terror.
Her face went completely pale as her carefully constructed wicked mask shattered instantly.
Evelyn: Richard! You are home so much earlier than your schedule said!
Richard: Answer my question immediately! Why is my son crying on the floor?